Real Self-Care: A Transformative Program for Redefining Wellness by Dr. Pooja Lakshmin

Real Self-Care by Dr. Pooja Lakshmin dismantles the cultural myth of self-care as something you can buy—whether it’s a yoga class, juice cleanse, or luxury linens—and reframes it as an internal, transformative practice.

Lakshmin argues that the mainstream version of self-care is often manipulative, keeping women chasing external fixes and perfection while ignoring deeper needs. True self-care, she explains, is harder but far more meaningful: it involves setting boundaries, making difficult choices, and approaching yourself with honesty and compassion.

Through case studies, clinical insights, and practical strategies, Lakshmin shows readers how to move beyond “faux” self-care toward sustainable practices that foster real change. Real Self-Care is ultimately a guide to reclaiming agency, easing guilt, and cultivating a deeper, more powerful connection with yourself.